The YPs will enable the community to annually honor individuals ages 21 through 40 who are making a positive impact on Spartanburg through work or service across various industries.

Naomi Sargent, director of college town and quality of place for the Spartanburg Chamber and staff liaison for SYP, said age is the only qualifying factor for award nominees.

SYP membership is not required for contestants and the community at large will pick the winners, she said.

“SYP is pursuing this initiative to achieve two of its own goals: enhancing the visibility of young professionals in the Spartanburg community, and encouraging young professionals to remain in Spartanburg,” Sargent said. “We believe that Spartanburg is a place where young professionals can thrive.”

Although the Spartanburg Chamber doles out a Young Professional of the Year award at its annual celebration, Sargent said Spartanburg has not had a formal awards program for its young professionals.